[5 Steps] To Divorcing During Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Step One: Breathe. A simple, yet important step. Many of us forget to do this during stressful times. Everything will be okay. When you look back on your divorce, many of us want to be proud of the steps we took. It’s easy to get caught up in the details, but when you look at the big picture everyone just wants one thing: happiness.
Step Two: Conduct research. If you don’t already have an attorney, figure out what divorce method you want to engage in. The collaborative method is favorable because a team of professionals work together. Your attorneys, along with a divorce coach, can guide you through the divorce process. This team can help you manage your time, finances, and emotions. The team approach helps you tackle uncertainty.
If you choose to litigate, you can file, but there will be a delay in getting the pleadings back. With the collaborative method, you don’t have to file, expediting the process. Your attorney will file the complaint by agreement, and then go to court. During the coronavirus outbreak, your attorney may have a phone conference with court to put your case through.
In the collaborative method, there’s minimal to no delay. The litigation method is delayed because of the court’s limited ability to respond. Use the chart below to figure out which method is right for you.
Step Three: Hire an attorney. Step three may come before step two. If you don’t know which divorce method is right for you, you may discuss these options with an attorney first. Make sure that the attorney is willing to travel to the court that will hear your case.
Step Four: Tell your spouse. You may ask your attorney for advice on how to do this. You may also contact a mental health professional for advice. What’s your relationship like with your spouse? Does he or she know that you want to proceed with a divorce? Because of the coronavirus, you both may be living in the marital home. Determine the best strategy for your specific situation.
Step Five: Communicate with your attorney. COVID-19 has changed the way we communicate. Instead of traveling to your attorney’s office, you may chat over the phone, Zoom, FaceTime, Google Hangout or another video conferencing software. Remember, divorce is possible during the coronavirus outbreak. Although COVID-19 has caused various delays, your divorce doesn’t have to be one of them.
